It’s a Very Sad Week in New Haven

We lost a good friend on Tuesday morning. Douglas Geller passed away after putting up a strong and courageous battle with cancer. Doug was not only one of my best friends, he was also involved with pretty much every positive thing that has happened in New Haven over the past 30+ years. He was involved with so many activities and programs, I thought it would be easier to just make a list of the awards and services that I know of.

Joined New Haven Festival Committee in 1987 – elected VP in 1988 – then served 15 years as President

Member of the Indiana State Festival Association

Served and was a lead member of the “Save Jury Pool” committee

Mayor’s Veteran’s Ride Committee

Was the Coordinator and Facilitator of the New Haven Citizen’s Academy

New Haven’s Volunteer Coordinator

Elected Adams Township Trustee Board Member

2015 Bill Fritcha Memorial Award Winner.

I know I’ve just touched on some of the things Doug was involved with. It was just a week ago Monday night that the Mayor awarded Doug the Bill Fritcha Memorial Award. Bill Fritcha was another prized New Haven resident that passed too early. He was known for giving his all to anyone who needed help. Doug was the absolute perfect choice for this award. Unfortunately, Doug was too ill to attend the dinner. Mayor McDonald, my wife Jane and I took it to him after the ceremony. Although he was in a lot of pain, we could see he truly appreciated the consideration. I accepted the award for Doug and he received a standing ovation from the large group attending. Please watch Bob Nelson’s video to hear Mayor McDonald’s comments.

The Citizens Academy was one of Doug’s All-Star efforts. The Academy is an eight week course to teach residents about how the city runs. Each week, different departments are discussed and tours are given. I was in the first Academy as were several other people now serving our community. It’s important that we carry on and offer this again, but it will be tough without Doug.

Whether you knew Doug personally or not – if you’ve lived in New Haven – please understand that he had a big part in making New Haven a great place to live, work and play. We’ll miss Doug greatly but I’m thankful he’s not in pain anymore. His wife Marcia, and their children should be very proud of his accomplishments and that he was loved by many friends in our community.

7 Comments

Andrea (Gilley) McCarthy
March 29, 2015

Doug was my coach, stand-in dad when needed, and my friemd. The world is a better place and I am a better person for knowing him. My heart goes out to his family. And Mitch, thank you for sharing your amazing dad!!!!

Doug was a wonderful man, easy to talk to and always willing to help in any way that he could. I had no idea he was so sick, and for that I am sorry. I think Doug would tell each of us to do what we can, wherever we can, and for as long as we can. That is the path to a great life journey.
God’s Blessings. May you rest in the arms of your Risen Savior.
Marjorie

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About Me

My name is Craig Dellinger. I created this blog as a way to communicate with my neighbors and to receive their feedback and input on community issues. I'm the 3rd District City Councilman in New Haven, as well as the President of New Haven Print. I'm also the current President of the Lakes of Scarborough / Ashford Lakes Community Association.